Display full version of the post: Create spline with a perpendicular & mobil segment

Ajendrex
27.01.2011, 16:19
Hello!Every time I use AutoCAD I have to connect electrical devices with a spline and then I need to draw a perpendicular segment (a line) to the already drawed spline in order to put a number indicating amount of cables.I'm wondering if there is some way to create a new object, very similar to a spline in the sense that I can define any number of points to draw the spline; but with the additional feature of a "built-in" perpendicular segment.Furthermore, I would need to be able to move this segment along the spline (after the spline points definition is done).  Perhaps the segment could have an initial position at the middle of the extension of the spline, but this is not really important as far as I can move the segment later.Does anyone have any clue of how could I get this behaviour for a "personalized spline" (if possible).Thanks!

tulip3D
27.01.2011, 16:35
Maybe convert the spline using 'splinedit' command to a polyline. then straiten out one end of it the way you like. See if that works...

Ajendrex
27.01.2011, 17:04
I guess I didn't explain myself well enough.  I don't want to work in each spline instance, I would like to know if I can define a entirely new object (like a line, a polyline or a spline; this one would be named "mypoliline" or something like that)Also, your advice didn't even result in what I need. Again, I always have to come up with a spline (of arbitrary number of points) and a short line perpendicular to the spline, in an arbitrary position along the spline.I can do it easily in two steps, first draw the spline and then draw the short line. However, what I'm looking for is a way to do it in only one step: draw the spline and the perpendicular segment automagically appears there.Thanks!

tulip3D
27.01.2011, 17:17
I would like to know if I can define a entirely new object (like a line,
a polyline or a spline; this one would be named "mypoliline" or
something like that)short answer: No. Long answer, you must write you own code (lisp)I would suggest to simple make your line, and copy it

Ajendrex
27.01.2011, 17:29
So, short answer is yes. Long answer: may be complicated, Lisp.Thanks, I will start learning Lisp.

HAWDesigner
27.01.2011, 17:39
Ajendrex, can you provide a picture of what you're talking about? Or maybe one that resembles what you're trying to accomplish?Thanks!!

tulip3D
27.01.2011, 17:48
LOL, shoot for the moon!

Ajendrex
27.01.2011, 18:25
http://tinypic.com/r/25u05yd/7

HAWDesigner
27.01.2011, 21:38
Ok, I think I understand what you're trying to do. I'm not sure if I will be a complete help to you, but maybe I can at least get you pointed in the right direction here.I think what you're looking to do is create a Dynamic Block. However, you can create a number of regular blocks and save them to your Tool Pallet so that you can quickly insert each one as you need it. This will at least prevent you from having to recreate the wheel every time you want a new item.Here's a nice tip on working with Tool Pallets that I really love: au.autodesk.com/?nd=class&session_id=3071

CarlB
27.01.2011, 21:50
With a fairly simple lisp you could automate drawing the perpendicular segment.  It would be a separate entity though. Start the routine with say "tic", click on object, and perpendicular line gets drawn. Default length, user adjustable such as with fillet radius.